#Bahamas, October 10, 2017 – Nassau – During a recent courtesy call with Bahamian Atlanta Braves baseball player, Anfernee Seymour, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Michael Pintard encouraged Bahamian businesses to use Bahamians who are achievers – especially in the athletic field – in their corporate branding.
“The idea is to assist the professional baseball player in building his brand,” Minister Pintard said. “The Ministry supports our professional athletes and we believe that they represent a powerful brand that can assist companies in getting their message out, while the companies, themselves, invest in their continued success.”
“In addition many of these athletes are wonderful role models who have incredible stories – about rising from humble beginnings to making it in the professional ranks – who have a passion for their country and proudly wear our banner as they travel internationally,” he added.
Anfernee – who considers himself an ambassador for The Bahamas – said that after meeting with Minister Pintard, he felt encouraged, and that he had taken “a step forward.” Anfernee – who currently plays centre field with the Braves – said that he started baseball at Freedom Farms at three-years old. He added that he attended Xavier’s Lower School and then St. Augustine’s College, until he left to finish high school in the United States.
When he graduated from high school, he noted, he was selected by the Miami Marlins in the seventh round of the amateur draft.
“In 2016, I was traded to the Atlanta Braves,” Anfernee said. “We won the Lower A title and this year was my first full year in the Atlanta Braves.”
Anfernee said that it is an honour to be from The Bahamas. He said: “Every where I go people ask me, ‘Oh, you’re from The Bahamas? I was just there. It was so nice. It was beautiful.’ I help to brand The Bahamas and I work to bring joy to a country that is so small. It is a great honour.”
He pointed out that he has had the support of fellow Bahamians, even having a number of them send him messages on social media, stating that they were watching him play on television.
“It’s fun and exciting,” he added.
Anfernee said that it was wonderful having his mother Jeannie Scavella in his corner and cheering for him. “She’s my number one fan,” he said with a smile. “It’s hard to explain. She’s amazing.”
Anfernee also tipped his hat to fellow Bahamians who are currently playing baseball and recognized those who came before them, creating the opportunities that they now have today. Minister Pintard said that it is a part of the responsibility of being the Ministry for youth and sports to support the young athletes’ continued success.
“We are encouraging companies to invest in these athletes and we would also like them to support these athletes as they go throughout our communities and schools speaking to young people about making positive lifestyle choices,” Minister Pintard said.
By Eric Rose (BIS)
Photo Caption: Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture the Hon. Michael Pintard salutes the efforts of Bahamian centre fielder in the Atlanta Braves, Anfernee Seymour (left), during a courtesy call at the Ministry.
(BIS Photo/Eric Rose)
